Delivering quality SuDS: Resources for planning officers

This session explored the pivotal role planners can play in shaping and securing high-quality sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in new development. Although England has not yet followed Wales in implementing Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act, the publication of updated national standards for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in June 2025 marks a significant step forward. These new standards provide greater clarity and detail than the previous non-statutory guidance and strengthen expectations for SuDS delivery in England. In parallel, forthcoming updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) may introduce additional policy drivers to support SuDS that reduce flood risk, improve water quality and biodiversity, and create more attractive and resilient places for people to live. As a result, planning officers responsible for interpreting and applying these policies and standards have an increasingly important role in supporting and challenging developers to deliver effective, multifunctional SuDS. This webinar provided an overview of the latest policy and standards landscape, alongside practical resources to support planning officers in evaluating and securing high-quality SuDS across the UK.